What is the correct order of the impulse strategy steps?

What is the correct order of the impulse strategy steps?

• A. Stop and Think; Breathe; Three Responses; Respond
• B. Stop and Think; Speak; Breathe; Respond
• C. Stop; Breathe; Speak; Act
• D. Pause; Think; Respond; Reflect

Answer: (A)

Overcoming impulses starts by interrupting the urge to react, creating a moment to choose rather than react automatically. The best sequence begins with Stop and Think, which breaks the immediate impulse and gives you a moment to assess what happened and what you want to achieve. Then Breathe to calm the body and clear the mind; steady breathing reduces tension and helps you think more clearly. Next, consider Three Responses, a deliberate step to weigh multiple constructive options instead of rushing into a single, impulsive action. Finally, Respond is putting your chosen, thoughtful option into action. This order prevents snap judgments, promotes calm thinking, and leads to a more deliberate and appropriate outcome. Other sequences might skip thinking or breathing or jump straight to speaking or acting, which can make impulsive choices more likely.

Overcoming impulses starts by interrupting the urge to react, creating a moment to choose rather than react automatically. The best sequence begins with Stop and Think, which breaks the immediate impulse and gives you a moment to assess what happened and what you want to achieve. Then Breathe to calm the body and clear the mind; steady breathing reduces tension and helps you think more clearly. Next, consider Three Responses, a deliberate step to weigh multiple constructive options instead of rushing into a single, impulsive action. Finally, Respond is putting your chosen, thoughtful option into action. This order prevents snap judgments, promotes calm thinking, and leads to a more deliberate and appropriate outcome. Other sequences might skip thinking or breathing or jump straight to speaking or acting, which can make impulsive choices more likely.